As the Major League Baseball offseason unfolds, speculation surrounding MacKenzie Gore’s future is intensifying, amid the Washington Nationals’ challenging choices for their 2025-26 roster. The Nationals must weigh whether to capitalize on Gore’s remaining team control or prioritize long-term rebuilding, making MacKenzie Gore offseason trade rumors a central topic for fans and analysts.
With the trade deadline behind us, teams are already shifting focus toward potential moves in the offseason that could reshape their lineups for next year and beyond. Understanding the underlying strategies and contractual timelines helps clarify why some players, including Gore, are likely to attract attention during these next few months.
Prominent Players Expected to Generate Winter Trade Discussions
Baseball insiders have identified a series of players whose names are expected to frequently appear in the rumors and trade chatter, ranked here based on their potential impact on future team success.
Joe Ryan: A Valuable Asset for Contending or Rebuilding Clubs
Minnesota Twins right-hander Joe Ryan, acquired in the Nelson Cruz trade, has evolved into a strong starting pitcher known for his commanding fastball. With free agency not arriving until after 2027, Ryan represents a significant trade asset if the Twins decide to rebuild rather than compete in the American League Central.
Freddy Peralta: Milwaukee’s Trade Possibility Amid Contract Uncertainty
Milwaukee Brewers’ Freddy Peralta has been key to their rotation over recent seasons. Entering his walk year, Peralta could be traded to avoid losing him without compensation. Milwaukee’s approach mirrors previous moves involving Corbin Burnes and Devin Williams, trading top talent before free agency to land more immediate contributors.
Steven Kwan: A Defensive Profile Under Evaluation in Cleveland
Cleveland Guardians outfielder Steven Kwan remains under team control through 2027 but is facing questions related to his declining sprint speed and defensive abilities. While an important part of the lineup today, ongoing assessment of his athleticism will influence whether he remains a fixture or becomes a movable piece this winter.
Sandy Alcantara: Marlins Consider the Trade Market After Recovery
Miami Marlins’ ace Sandy Alcantara entered the season as a likely trade candidate but a surprising team surge and his cautious progress from elbow surgery prompted the club to hold him through the deadline. With another year under guaranteed contract and a 2027 club option, he could still attract suitors if he returns to ace form.
Mitch Keller: A High-Value Starter from Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh Pirates starter Mitch Keller’s mix of proven success, future potential, and affordable contract makes him a leading candidate for offseason trades. The Pirates aim to leverage their pitching depth to address offensive needs before the 2026 season begins.
MacKenzie Gore’s Critical Crossroads with the Nationals
The Nationals face a pivotal decision involving MacKenzie Gore’s future. Both Gore and shortstop CJ Abrams remain under team control through the 2027 season, but Gore’s past inconsistency as a mid-rotation starter complicates the decision. The franchise must determine whether to push for near-term competitiveness or accelerate rebuilding through acquiring more talent, creating a tense, high-stakes situation for the 2025-26 campaign planning.
Brendan Donovan: Cardinals’ Versatile Man at Second Base
St. Louis Cardinals second baseman Brendan Donovan, on the cusp of free agency and nearing 29, could become available as the team evaluates internal replacements like top prospect JJ Wetherholt. Donovan’s appeal lies in his left-handed hitting and consistent offensive production, which would attract contending clubs seeking depth.
Pete Fairbanks: Rays Likely to Move their Reliable Reliever
Tampa Bay Rays reliever Pete Fairbanks, despite recent dips in strikeout rates, remains effective in high-leverage situations. However, the Rays face a tough financial decision with a $7 million club option for 2026. With recent bullpen reinforcements such as Bryan Baker and Griffin Jax, a trade involving Fairbanks appears probable.
Josh Jung: Rangers’ Infield Flexibility Could Spark Movement
Texas Rangers third baseman Josh Jung is approaching both arbitration eligibility and 28 years of age, with questions around his game availability after playing only about 130 games since Opening Day 2024. The arrival of top prospect Sebastian Walcott could prompt a trade discussion, possibly linked to other infielders such as Corey Seager or Marcus Semien, making Jung a potential trade candidate.
Ryan Mountcastle: Orioles’ First Base Options Stir Trade Talk
Baltimore Orioles first baseman Ryan Mountcastle continues to be mentioned in trade speculation, particularly given his approaching free agency and the presence of multiple corner infield prospects, including Samuel Basallo. Mountcastle’s recent down year might increase the possibility of non-tender or trade options as the organization plans its next steps.
The Significance of MacKenzie Gore’s Situation for the Nationals
MacKenzie Gore’s status is central to the Nationals’ offseason strategy, as his development and consistency will influence whether the team chooses to compete now or focus on longer-term growth. With Gore entering his final guaranteed year and free agency looming post-2027, the Nationals must carefully evaluate his value in the marketplace versus his potential future contributions. The outcome of this decision will greatly shape Washington’s trajectory for the 2025-26 season and beyond.
The unfolding offseason promises intense negotiations and strategic pivots, with the Nationals’ fate hanging in the balance as they decide Gore’s role. Fans and analysts alike should watch closely, as the moves made now will echo through next season and potentially alter the competitive landscape of Major League Baseball.